COVID-19 Lockdown: Domestic Violence Cases Surge Across The Globe [India Helpline Numbers]

High Domestic Violence During 'Family Time'

According to studies, the chances of domestic violence is high whenever families spend more time together, such as on school vacations, Christmas holidays, etc. [2][3]. Currently, with families being ordered to stay indoors to avoid contracting the novel coronavirus disease, the victims are trapped inside homes with their abusers, with no way out.

The horrifying global surge in domestic violence amidst the coronavirus scare is not a feeble claim but reports that are supported by proof. During the lockdown, as people are unable to go outside the four walls of their home, there are chances of conflicts growing bigger and resulting in assault and violence [4][5].

Domestic violence experts use the term 'intimate terrorism' to reflect the grim reality of the abuse inflicted upon victims, where it is no less than an act of terrorism on the emotional, physical and mental well-being of an individual and their individuality [6][7].

Women & Girls At Increased Risk

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said during the press conference, "For many women and girls, the threat looms largest where they should be safest in their own homes. In some countries, the number of women calling support services has doubled". The UN chief preferred not to name the countries [8].

Various countries including China, India, Spain, and Italy have reported a steep rise in the number of domestic violence cases[9]. According to the National Commission for Women, India reported double the usual number of domestic abuse cases in the first week of lockdown [10].

France saw a three times' surge in the week after that country's lockdown, with Australia reporting a 75 percent increase in Internet searches relating to support for domestic violence victims [11].

The UN chief put forth the need to implement emergency warning systems in pharmacies and groceries, and for safe ways "for women to seek support, without alerting their abusers".

India Reports 50% Surge In Domestic Violence Cases

As per reports of the National Commission for Women (NCW), since the first day of the Coronavirus lockdown, there has been a twofold rise in gender-based violence [12]. The report points out that the total complaints from women rose from 116 in the first week of March (2-8 March), to 257 in the final week (23 March -1 April).

The cases of domestic violence are high in the states of Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Haryana and Punjab, where the cause of increased domestic violence is said to rise from the frustration men developed due to the current movement restrictions, where they take it out on the women at home.

Job loss, salary cuts, and an uncertain future are some of the reasons leading to the misogynist frustration, where the victims have reported to the relief organisations that the constant abuse is leading to their deteriorating mental health [13].

Child Helplines Report 50% Surge In Cases

Reports on abuse point out that it is not only women but also children who are being subjected to abuse inside their homes. The Childline India NGO received more than 92,000 SOS calls asking for protection from abuse and violence in 11 days [14].

Out of the 3.07 lakh calls received by the 'CHILDLINE 1098' helpline, 92,105 calls were about protection against abuse and violence on children.

On A Final Note

Some experts point out the lack of proper decision-making and execution of the lockdown in the country to the rising number of domestic violence. The governments around the world, with the help of civic groups and support groups, are steadily working towards managing the situation, hoping to provide support and assistance. However, with the Coronavirus lockdown and restrictions on facilities, the pandemic is expected to push the world economy into a recession, which experts say may make it difficult for most victims to leave abusive relationships. In such a situation, it is even more important that if you are going through such a situation, you seek help.